Wednesday, August 3, 2011

No-Bake Peach Bars

I've been recipe testing to find a great no-bake, fruit-filled dessert for the summertime...and here it is! These bars hit the spot for me -they're easy to make, there's no need to turn on a warm oven and it makes the best of fresh fruit. Softening the peaches for a few minutes really makes a big difference as the peaches release their natural juices and becomes perfectly velvety. These bars are a little gooey so I suggest enjoying them with a fork!

Pulse prunes, nuts, oats and honey in a food processor. Lightly butter a 9 by 5 inch loaf pan and line tightly with plastic wrap making sure the wrap goes over the sides of the pan. Press down the prune mixture at the bottom of the pan using the back of a spoon or pressing down above a sheet of parchment paper if the mixture is too sticky to properly even out.

Add the butter to a small pan on medium heat. Cut the peaches into quarters and sprinkle with the sugar. Add to the pan when the butter starts to foam. Cook until the peaches just start to soften. Lay the peaches snugly over the prune mixture. Fold the extra plastic wrap over the peaches and leave to set in the fridge for 30 minutes. Cut into triangles and serve. Enjoy!

Whoa...you had me at no-bake, but add the sauteed peaches, and I'm a goner! Too delicious, AND healthy, which is right up my alley! Such a yummy looking and light treat...just right for these warmer days.